Following the global trend of a demand for more flexible, serviced office space, the latest addition to Sandton’s commercial property sector challenges what many developers have considered the ‘norm’.

Situated at 150 Rivonia Road Sandton, where Cell C once based their head office, the development has been designed around meeting the demand from entrepreneurs and SMEs for more flexibility when it comes to office rentals. What truly sets it apart from other commercial lease offerings, is that tenants have unique access to a private investor network giving investment-ready companies the opportunity to attract and secure such investment. This has created a stir amongst many SMEs as this is the first time such a concept has been introduced in South Africa.

The Business Exchange, developed by investment guru David Seinker, offers both local and international businesses fully serviced and flexible office space, while also providing complete access to marketing, digital and public relations services.

’’We developed this commercial space concept around the rising trend and demand for more flexibility and fully-serviced offices, offering not only space but also access to resources that many SMEs do not have and which many can not afford as additional outsourced services, says Seinker, ‘’We introduced access to an investor network as our market researched showed that this was a growth-limiting factor for most SMEs. We anticipate much investment as these private investment funders are ranked amongst some of the wealthiest individuals in Southern Africa and have completed investment deals totalling R62 million to date.’’

‘’Sandton will always be in demand due to its infrastructure and proximity to variousbusinesses, but setup costs, rental agreements and lack of flexibility and resources can be crippling for entrepreneurs as they start up their businesses,’’ adds Seinker. ‘’They are driving the demand for such flexibility and access to resources in the Sandton area, and many property developers are being forced to take notice.’’

The Business Exchange, offering a variety of office setup options, features a reception area and welcome lounge for all tenants, fully equipped meeting rooms, complete IT and telecoms infrastructure, parking and a café, restaurant and bar within the building. The space will house 40 businesses with rentals starting from R11 000 a month. In addition, the company is offering a virtual package for budget-tight entrepreneurs who require a prime address with access to meeting room facilities. The company will also be targeting international corporates who require flexible office space, enabling them to grow into Africa.

‘’150 Rivonia Road is the first building to launch under The Business Exchange. In the next 5 years we aim to house over 1,000 businesses across the country. From there we will look to expand further into Africa.’’